Wideband phase-locked loop circuit with real-time phase correction for frequency modulation atomic force microscopy

Rev Sci Instrum. 2011 Jul;82(7):073707. doi: 10.1063/1.3608447.

Abstract

We have developed a wideband phase-locked loop (PLL) circuit with real-time phase correction for high-speed and accurate force measurements by frequency modulation atomic force microscopy (FM-AFM) in liquid. A high-speed operation of FM-AFM requires the use of a high frequency cantilever which, however, increases frequency-dependent phase delay caused by the signal delay within the cantilever excitation loop. Such phase delay leads to an error in the force measurements by FM-AFM especially with a low Q factor. Here, we present a method to compensate this phase delay in real time. Combined with a wideband PLL using a subtraction-based phase comparator, the method allows to perform an accurate and high-speed force measurement by FM-AFM. We demonstrate the improved performance by applying the developed PLL to three-dimensional force measurements at a mica/water interface.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Imaging, Three-Dimensional
  • Microscopy, Atomic Force / instrumentation*
  • Time Factors
  • Water / chemistry

Substances

  • Water